Abstract: A substrate tap is incorporated in an integrated circuit which comprises a plurality of transistors formed in isolated device regions in a substrate material comprising a layer of N-type material over a layer of P-type material. The isolated device regions are defined by isolating slots extending down through said N-type material and into the P-type material. The trench for each substrate tap extend down to said P-type material and has an oxide layer lining the sidewalls of trench, a doped polysilicon layer covering the sides and bottom of said trench, and a doped implant or diffused region formed at the base of and in contact between the tap and the substrate. The substrate beneath the devices is connected to a negative potential to isolate the devices on said substrate. Preferably, the substrate tap includes a silicide layer formed over said polysilicon layer to enhance contact to said doped implant region.